decriminalize
verb
de·crim·i·nal·ize
(ˌ)dē-ˈkri-mə-nə-ˌlīz 
-ˈkrim-nəl-
decriminalized; decriminalizing; decriminalizes
: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of
especially
: to repeal a strict ban on while keeping under some form of regulation
decriminalize the possession of marijuana
Examples of decriminalize in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In addition to medical marijuana, there is significant support for decriminalizing cannabis possession.
—
Tribune Content Agency, The Mercury News, 11 Feb. 2025
However, some governments have decriminalized possession of the drug in small amounts.
—Edward Szekeres, CNN, 7 Feb. 2025
Before the vote, Dallas had been one of the largest U.S. cities that had not decriminalized cannabis possession.
—Alexis Simmerman, Austin American-Statesman, 17 Dec. 2024
Jaywalking laws were pushed by the auto industry in the 1930s as a way to keep people off streets and make more room for vehicles, according to America Walks, a Seattle-baes group that has been tracking proposals to decriminalize jaywalking.
—Nina Turner, Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2024
See All Example Sentences for decriminalize
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Tribune Content Agency, The Mercury News, 11 Feb. 2025
However, some governments have decriminalized possession of the drug in small amounts.
—Edward Szekeres, CNN, 7 Feb. 2025
Before the vote, Dallas had been one of the largest U.S. cities that had not decriminalized cannabis possession.
—Alexis Simmerman, Austin American-Statesman, 17 Dec. 2024
Jaywalking laws were pushed by the auto industry in the 1930s as a way to keep people off streets and make more room for vehicles, according to America Walks, a Seattle-baes group that has been tracking proposals to decriminalize jaywalking.
—Nina Turner, Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2024
See All Example Sentences for decriminalize
Cite this Entry
“Decriminalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decriminalize. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationLegal Definition
decriminalize
transitive verb
de·crim·i·nal·ize
dē-ˈkri-mən-ᵊl-ˌīz
decriminalized; decriminalizing
: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share